Zoning FAQ 6

What is spot zoning and when is it lawful?

Spot zoning is when a zoning ordinance is
amended to zone a relatively small area for uses significantly
different from those allowed in the surrounding area to favor the owner
of a particular piece of property. Ohm, Guide to Community Planning in Wisconsin
at 105. Spot zoning is not necessarily illegal because such zoning is
not necessarily inconsistent with the purposes for which zoning
ordinances can be passed. However, rezoning should be consistent with
long-range planning and based upon considerations which affect the whole
community. Therefore spot zoning should only be indulged in where it is
in the public interest and not solely for the benefit of the property
owner requesting the rezoning. Bubolz v. Dane County, 159 Wis.2d 284, 464 N.W.2d 67 (Ct. App. 1990).